ISLAMABAD: An expert on Wednesday underscored the significance of balanced diplomacy and collaboration to ensure stability in Asia.

Professor Shin Kawashima from the University of Tokyo was in Islamabad to speak as a guest lecturer at an event organised by the China-Pakistan Study Centre (CPSC) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI).

The event was also attended by the Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan Akamatsu Shuichi.

In his lecture, Prof Shin Kawashima examined Japan’s path to modernisation and its growing influence in regional geopolitics.

Tracing the nation’s transformation from the Meiji Restoration to its post-World War II economic revival, he highlighted Japan’s commitment to peace, democracy and regional cooperation.

Reflecting on the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Pakistan, marked last year, Dr Kawashima emphasised the strength of their partnership and Japan’s focus on deepening economic and cultural connections across the region.

Addressing broader East Asian dynamics, he explored the challenges and opportunities shaping the region.

In his thoughts on Japan’s perspective on regional issues, the speaker acknowledged the value of economic interdependence. He outlined Japan’s initiatives to expand trade and investment networks, emphasising respect for sovereignty and the diverse aspirations of partner nations.

Speaking to Dawn earlier in the day, Dr Kawashima expressed confidence that hostilities in East Asia were unlikely to escalate.

While acknowledging that China was expected to increase pressure on Taiwan, he ruled out the possibility of direct conflict.

“A forceful takeover could provoke US intervention and such a war would come at a significant cost to China,” he explained.

Dr Kawashima noted that Japan’s relations with Russia and North Korea remain delicate.

“Japan continues to engage with both countries, keeping communication and diplomatic channels open,” he said. He highlighted the importance of US military presence in East Asia, citing North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and China’s growing military capabilities as key factors.

Despite its strong alliance with the United States, Japan holds differing views on certain global issues, he pointed out.

The expert said the East Asian nation’s stance on the Gaza conflict and its approach to engagements with Iran differed from that of the US, particularly as Japan imports oil and gas from Iran.”

Meanwhile, Director General ISSI Ambassador (R) Sohail Mahmood highlighted the “enduring friendship” between Pakistan and Japan, highlighting the historical and multifaceted ties between the two countries.

Sohail Mahmood also noted Japan’s role as a steadfast partner in Pakistan’s development journey and stressed growing collaboration in areas such as trade, investment, climate change, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and regional stability.

Ambassador Akamatsu Shuichi highlighted the long-standing Japan-Pakistan partnership and expressed hope for continued collaboration to address regional and global challenges.

Published in Dawn, January 9th, 2025